Support KCPT: Volunteer

Auction Volunteers

KCPT's live, on-air auction occurs in Spring and Fall. Viewers call in and bid on their favorite items while raising money for their local Public Television station.  Auction offers many different times and ways for volunteers to get involved as go-getters, bid takers, sorters, posters, confirmation callers and many more.   Help is needed before, during and after Auction.  For more information, view the Auction Job Description List, or contact Amy Winn, Volunteer Coordinator at (816) 756-3580, ext. 4286. Sign up now!

Auction Volunteer FAQ's

What are the age requirements for volunteers?

Volunteers must be 16 years of age or older to volunteer during Auction.   For younger people wanting to participate, we have the Kid's Auction during our Holiday auction in November.  Kids interested in participating need to be a minimum of 10 years or in the 5th grade.

Can our high school group volunteer?

Absolutely!  Volunteers must be a minimum of 16 years of age and be accompanied by one chaperone per 10 students. 

Can I fulfill community service or volunteer service hours at KCPT?

KCPT tracks all volunteer hours for reporting purposes.  Your individual or group volunteer hours are available for your service requirements.  Also, many companies reward their employees for volunteering. Be sure to check with your HR department. 

How many group members can we bring?

During Auction we accept groups of 10-12 people without sponsorship. Groups of 5 or more are thanked on-air. 

Where is KCPT and is parking available?KCPT is located at 125 E. 31st street, Kansas City, MO  64108, (one block East of Main under the big, orange tower.)  Parking is located on the West and North sides of the building.  All volunteers MUST enter through the main doors located underneath the KCPT letters on the west side of the building.

What time should I arrive to volunteer?
Arrival time will depend on your scheduled shift.  You will receive an e-mail or letter confirming your assigned shift and job.  If you have signed up, but not received confirmation, please contact Mandy Knight, at 816-756-3580, ext. 4286. 

Is food and beverage provided?

Generous food donors provide food for our hardworking volunteers.  If you have special dietary needs, you may want to eat prior to your shift.

What is the dress code?
If coming with a group, you are welcome to wear your group's attire.  Our Spring Auction has a different theme each year.  Be sure to call to find out what this year's theme is!   During the Holiday Auction, you are welcome to wear your favorite Holiday attire.

Who should I call if I have more questions about volunteering for Auction?Contact Amy Winn, KCPT Volunteer Coordinator, at (816) 756-3580, ext 4286 or amy_winn@kcpt.org

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Auction Job Description List

Download PDF (108 KB)

Phone Bank:  Take bids from viewers.  Requirements:  Good eyesight, good hearing and legible handwriting.  25 volunteer openings per shift.
 

Bid Runners: Pass bids from phone bank to the appropriate Bid Entry Volunteer. Requirements: must be able to spend long periods of time on your feet, constantly moving. 3 volunteer openings per shift.

Bid Sorter:  Sort bids from high to low after the Bid Entry Volunteers enter into the computer.  Requirements:  Quickness and accuracy. 10 volunteer openings per shift.
 

Bid Entry Volunteer: Enters bids into the computer. Requirements: Comfortable with computers and good data entry skills are a MUST. 5 volunteer openings per shift.

Display:  3 volunteers display merchandise on air while the other 3 make sure the next items are ready to be shown on air. These positions can rotate as desired. Requirements: Ability to stand for long periods of time. Must dress in dark clothing (all one color w/ long sleeves). Need clean hands and nails. Required rehearsal meeting. 6 volunteer openings per shift.

Information Phones:  Answer viewer questions about on-air items. Requirements: Computer skills, customer service skills and good hearing. 3 volunteer openings per shift.
 

Staging: Enters item numbers into computer in the order they'll be shown on air, moves filled carts to studio, takes items from cart and places items on correct staging tables (in studio), takes displayed items and packs them back in boxes, making sure paperwork is correct with item and moves cart to elevator. Requirements: Must enjoy a fast-paced atmosphere and possess organizational skills. 7-8 volunteer openings per shift.
 

Logistics: Move merchandise in grocery carts using freight elevator. Re-shelve items for Pick Up and Pay. Requirements: Ability to handle heavy and fragile merchandise with care. 5 volunteer openings per shift.
 

Canteen:  Replenish supplies and food as needed.  Shift starts 1/2 hour BEFORE stated shift times.   3 volunteer openings per shift.

Confirmation Phones:  Call and confirm the high bidder after merchandise is sold. Enter sales information into the computer and give out pick up and pay information. This shift starts 1/2 hour after the stated shift times. Late shift goes until all sold items are confirmed. Usually 1/2 hour after auction ends. Requirements: Valid Photo ID and legible handwriting. 10 volunteer openings per shift.
 

Data Entry: Enter all sales information into the computer after high bidder has been confirmed. Shift starts 1/2 hour after stated shift times. Late shift does not leave until all of the sales are entered. Usually 1/2 hour after auction ends. Requirement: Computer, typing skills. 2 volunteer openings per shift.
 

Filer:  Keeps the bid slips and buyer information in correct order. 2 volunteers per shift.

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